From 769: Coronavirus is National Emergency

TO ALL 769 MEMBERS:

Attached please find two letters of reference to help guide us all through this unprecedented time in our history. The Board is using all the resources we have to help.

I know some members have reached out regarding questions about unemployment and taking your annuity out. Unfortunately, I am not an expert and don’t want to lead anybody in the wrong direction. I know you should all qualify for unemployment. As stated in one of the attachments, International Vice President and BA of Local 2, Craig Carlson, has been in contact with the IDES to help smooth the process if verification is needed.

Please make sure before removing annuity money that you are aware of the tax implications and fees required for doing so. Talk with your financial advisor or tax person to make sure you understand the process. I am not an accountant, rather a member of the Local like you, trying to muddle my way through this catastrophic event. One thing I know for sure, the upcoming primary and national election is more important than ever. Please make your voice heard.

Contact your legislators and vote!!

Cheryl Weber

Secretary - Treasurer

I spoke with someone from unemployment yesterday and he said because of covid-19 they wouldn't be collecting all the usual information unless it's from someone not in their system. But try not to call at the peak times which is 10am til 2pm. So if any of our members can file online I would suggest they do ASAP.

Marguerite Scott

President

March 16, 2020

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

The Coronavirus has reached “National Emergency” status. The Federal Government just appropriated $50B, contingent on a favorable Senate vote Monday, to help those physically or financially affected by COVID-19. The attached document, marked “Families First”, describes the relief this recent legislation will provide.

Please know that if you’re regularly referred to work under TWU Local 769 Agreements and you are otherwise able to work if not for the effects of Coronavirus, then you are eligible for unemployment insurance. Local 769 is not an employer but we can help verify that you regularly make yourself available for and are able to be referred to work when there is work available.

I’ve attached a document in that regard which you may find useful. This is a National Emergency, drastic times call for drastic measures so please take advantage of all available benefits. I’ve attached a document identifying many unemployment insurance offices in our area with links for directions.

The Illinois Department of Public Health has a statewide COVID-19 hotline and website to answer any questions from the public or to report a suspected case: call 1-800-889-3931 or visit IDPH.illinois.gov.

Lastly, please click on the link in the last email I sent to tell Congress to include entertainment workers in their coronavirus relief package.

Thank you to International Vice President Craig Carlson for his help and guidance thru this difficult period. Together, we’ll get through this crisis. We’re here to help, please don’t hesitate to contact the Union if you need assistance.

This is a very difficult time for our industry and for the bearer of this letter who is an IATSE Local 769 member. They have been put out of work due to Coronavirus.

More than likely, due to the nature of our industry, this member’s employment record reflects numerous employers as we work for a myriad of venues on events and presentations of every kind and nature. Regardless of the number of employers, many members accrue significant annual wages, all of which are subject to payroll tax, which qualifies them for Unemployment Insurance Benefits.

International Vice President Craig Carlson has been in contact with IDES Justin Brissette, who oversees your "IDES Rapid Response Program" and he's assured the AFL-CIO this process will be respectful to our members and their benefits will be on a fast track in order to provide them quick relief. We appreciate your help in assisting us in this most difficult time.